Canon is planning to release a firmware update for its EOS-1D X digital SLR camera. The upgrade promises to deliver enhanced low-light performance through improved AF tracking. In addition the minimum shutter speed limit for ISO Auto will increase to reach 1/8000, and there will be a possibility to keep the exposure constant when zooming or changing lenses by altering the ISO or shutter speed manually. The firmware update, which is scheduled for a January release, will also bring flexibility for controls, including switching between one-shot AF and Al Servo AF.

Canon Press Release

EOS-1D X - Firmware Announcement Details:

We are planning to provide a new firmware update Version 2.X.X for the EOS-1D X which will provide many improved functions and functionality.

The Web release of the firmware is scheduled for January 2014.

Helpful Information:

This firmware update (Version 2.X.X) will include the following improvements to functionality and corrections of issues.

Auto focusing performance under low-light conditions has been enhanced when performing focusing before shooting in AI Servo AF mode. The enhancement comes from the improvement in tracking capability for the first image in the low-light conditions.

The number of release parameters settings for the “AI Servo AF 2nd image priority” AF function will be increased to enable improved AF tracking in low light or maintain consistent high frames rates during continuous shooting.

The number of parameters for acceleration/deceleration tracking in the AF Configuration Tool will be increased.

Exposure compensation can be performed when using manual exposure and ISO Auto.

The minimum shutter speed limit for ISO Auto will be increased with shutter speeds up to 1/8000.

A new function to keep the exposure constant by altering the ISO or shutter speed in manual exposure, when the aperture value changes when zooming or changing lenses will be added.

A new option will be added to orientation linked AF point to enable only the AF point to switch as you change orientation rather than both AF point/ AF area settings

A new option to continue to use the previously manually selected AF point as the initial starting AF point when switching to 61-point automatic selection will be added.

New customization of the Exposure metering and AF controls will be added for more flexibility.

The number of possibilities for controls to switch between one-shot AF and AI Servo AF using custom controls has increased.

A function will be added to allow the playback and review of protected images only.

This update is for cameras running Firmware Version 1.2.4 and earlier.